Joanna James
The Paris of the East or Shanghai may not be as vibrant as Beijing but it is in no way outdone by the nation's capital in terms of tourist highlights. Here are 10 must-visit attractions in the area.
Occupying pride of place in Shanghai's Anyuan Lu district, the Jade Buddha Temple is one of a kind religious highlight in the area. Home to not one but two statues of Shakyamuni, the building dates back to 1928 although the original edifice was constructed as early as 1882. Main attractions within the compound include the Hall of the Great Hero and the Hall of the Kings of Heaven.
Also known as Zhongshan Lu, The Bund is a scenic recreational area which occupied the western shores of the Huangpujiang River. As a popular stopover for locals and tourists, what sets this venue apart from similar promenades is its distinctly European feel with countless galleries, restaurants and iconic buildings bordering the area.
Located in the northeast part of Old Town in Shanghai lies the picturesque Yu Garden which was built in 1559. Locally dubbed the Garden of Happiness this horticultural enclave is spread out over an impressive 20,000m2. Made up of an inner and outer garden the park's central hall is another point of interest within the enclosure.
Established in 1952, a tour of the Shanghai Museum is a must for all first time visitors exploring this part of the country. Offering travellers an in-depth look at the heritage and history of the city, the iconic institution delves into the local culture with calligraphy, ink paintings, coin collections and furniture which dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Regarded as Shanghai's best retail heartland, a shopping spree in Nanjing Road is the perfect way to stock up on souvenirs and other goodies when travelling around the city. Lined with Chinese street vendors and countless stalls, the area also contains a plethora of department stores and shopping malls such as Jiubai and Yibai. As a premier entertainment hub, Nanjing Road is also where the best restaurants and cinemas in Shanghai are found.
Picturesque and tranquil, the Longhua Temple and Pagoda are among the oldest religious attractions in the Chinese Republic and those based at Citadines Gubei Shanghai or any other Shanghai Service apartment rental can visit this peaceful shrine any time of the day. As a famous pilgrimage site, the venue's Maitreya Hall, Heavenly King Hall and Grand Hall of the Great Sage are used for religious ceremonies to this day.
Towering above the surrounding landscape at a height of 468m, the Oriental Pearl Tower is a television and radio tower located on the eastern shores of the Huangpu River. Tipped to offer some of the best views of the city from its vaulted height, the tower was constructed in 1991 and features an observation deck at 350m.
This state-of-the-art museum is not only an excellent family attraction in the city but also a prime edutainment hotspot for the masses. The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum also uses interactive displays and high tech showcases to demonstrate great inventions.
Having opened its doors in 1956, the Shanghai Natural History Museum is one of China's biggest museums and is spread out over 40,000m2.
Built on the grounds which used to house a racecourse, this public square is also within close range of Shanghai City Hall and the Grand Theatre.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
